Nearly three decades later, a cult classic sports comedy getting its sequel might have been a slippery slope. However, Adam Sandler's comedic genius, combined with Netflix's marketing sagacity, turned out to be a mega triumph for Happy Gilmore 2, released on the streaming platform on July 25, 2025. The cult classic original movie gained attention for its ridiculous golf sequences, iconic cameos, and Sandler's unstoppable comedic charm. Though the sequel received mixed reactions, what sets it apart is its savvy marketing strategy.

Netflix's ingenious promotions of Happy Gilmore 2 strummed all the right strings of the modern audience's nostalgic hearts.

Months before the first trailer of the sequel dropped, Happy Gilmore 2's marketing stood on business, having the film's star, Christopher McDonald, appear in character as the cocky golfer Shooter McGavin at the WM Phoenix Open golf tournament. Netflix did not just stop there; they collaborated with several brands to promote the movie across all platforms, from banks to fast food chains. To promote the film, the marketing team also transformed the iconic Times Square ball into a golf ball symbolizing Happy's return to the green after thirty years.

In addition, a bespoke Spotify audio-golf experience allowed fans to play a Happy Gilmore game built within the app, revealing movie scenes and themed playlists as they played. Netflix has also launched its easter-egg video game Happy Gilmore: Golf Mayhem ’98 Demo. These unique marketing strategies ensured the film stood out beyond trailers and social media traction.

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Happy Gilmore 2 did more than just position marketing strategies within the cultural zeitgeist. It also utilized nostalgia and celebrity cameos to attract the attention of different kinds of audiences.

For those who have not watched Happy Gilmore 2 yet, be prepared to be hit with an incessant comedy rollercoaster that will keep viewers on their toes. While the sequel has received rather lukewarm response within the first few hours of its release, the movie has already pushed promotional boundaries while retaining familiarity. Directed by Kyle Newacheck and co-written by Tim Herlihy, alongside Adam Sandler, the film featured all-star cameos from various entertainment fields, including music and sports.

Bad Bunny joined as a supporting cast, and Eminem got eaten by alligators in a hilarious cameo. Meanwhile, several celebs such as Travis Kelce, Steve Buscemi, Post Malone, Kid Cudi, Ken Jennings, Guy Fieri, Becky Lynch, Margaret Qualley, Hot Ones' Sean Evans, and many more appeared in scene-stealing cameos. Despite some criticism of nostalgia overkill, Happy Gilmore 2 served absurd laughs and Adam Sandler's enduring crowd-pulling ability with comedy.

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What are your thoughts on Happy Gilmore 2's genius marketing strategies? Tell us in the comments below.